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Reps Propose 5-Year Jail Term for Exam Cheats, Spark National Outrage
A newly proposed bill by the House of Representatives recommending stricter penalties for examination malpractices has ignited mixed reactions among Nigerians.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The legislation titled Examination Malpractices Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2025 (HB2097), was introduced on March 6 by Hon. Esosa Iyawe, representing Oredo Federal Constituency. It seeks to repeal the 2004 Examination Malpractice Act and replace it with an updated framework that expands the scope of offences and prescribes more stringent sanctions.
Under the proposed law, individuals found guilty of leaking exam questions could face up to five years imprisonment, a fine of ₦500,000, or both. For minors (under 18) involved in such offences, the penalty would be up to three years imprisonment or the same fine. The bill also aligns penalties for minors with the provisions of the Child Rights Act.
The legislation prescribes a four-year jail term without the option of a fine for principals, teachers, examiners, and other officials involved in exam malpractices. Furthermore, individuals marking examination scripts who tamper with scores could be liable to four years imprisonment or a fine of ₦400,000—or both.
Section 4 of the bill criminalizes attempts to gain unfair advantages by stealing or tampering with exam materials, with violators facing up to three years imprisonment or a ₦500,000 fine. Impersonation during exams would attract similar sanctions.
Additionally, candidates caught cheating or communicating with external parties during an exam risk up to three years in prison, a minimum ₦300,000 fine, and disqualification from completing the exam. Offenders aiding candidates, especially those unaffiliated with the examination body, would also face heavy penalties.
Despite its intentions to curb exam fraud, the proposal has sparked criticism from various quarters. Critics argue that while exam malpractice is a serious issue, it should not overshadow more pressing national concerns such as insecurity, poverty, and economic hardship.
Chief Maxi Okwu, a legal practitioner and former APGA national chairman, condemned the bill, calling it a misplacement of priorities. “The country is battling terrorism, banditry, and hunger. Lawmakers should address these existential threats before diverting energy to less urgent issues,” he said.
Public affairs analyst Adekunle James also criticized the moral authority of the legislators, alleging that some of them may possess questionable academic credentials. “Many Nigerians can’t feed, afford healthcare, or pay rent. Legislators should be passing laws that improve lives, not punish students disproportionately,” he argued.
While some citizens appreciate efforts to improve academic integrity, others see the proposed punishments as excessive and ill-timed.
The bill is currently awaiting its second reading in the House of Representatives.
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Bulldozers Roll In! Lagos Crushes Illegal Structures at Oko-Oba Abattoir in Massive Cleanup Raid
The Lagos State Government has ramped up its environmental enforcement efforts with the demolition of unauthorized structures at the Oko-Oba Abattoir in Agege, following its indefinite closure due to rampant sanitation breaches.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed the demolition in a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday.
Wahab stated that operatives from the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) carried out the removal of structures illegally erected on drainage setbacks within the abattoir.
“As part of the ongoing clean-up, officials of @LAGESCOfficial have begun dismantling illegal constructions built on drainage setbacks inside the Oko-Oba Abattoir,” he wrote.
He explained that the operation was part of a broader initiative to restore environmental order, improve hygiene, and reduce the risk of disease by ensuring unimpeded stormwater flow and proper abattoir waste disposal.
This latest action comes just days after the state government sealed the Oko-Oba Abattoir, citing numerous environmental violations — including improper meat handling, uncontrolled animal waste disposal, and encroachment on public drainage channels.
Speaking during a live appearance on Arise TV on Sunday, Wahab affirmed that the facility would remain shut until all operators comply with prescribed environmental and health standards.
“The condition we found there was appalling,” Wahab lamented. “They’ve consistently ignored our regulations, despite years of engagement and even international trips to expose them to modern practices.”
He revealed that instead of complying, some operators have resorted to slaughtering cattle in an abandoned gas station and on the streets.
According to Wahab, only about 10% of the abattoir’s mechanized infrastructure is being utilized, while most operators continue to neglect basic sanitation guidelines.
President Bola Tinubu on Monday extended warm congratulations to Dr. Awele Elumelu, Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited, on the occasion of her 55th birthday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President joined family, friends, and well-wishers in honouring Dr. Elumelu, whom he described as an exceptional physician, devoted wife and mother, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. He praised her invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s development, especially in healthcare and the empowerment of underserved communities. “Dr. Elumelu has earned widespread recognition for her selfless dedication to saving lives and uplifting women and children across the country,” the President said. Tinubu highlighted her pioneering role at Avon Healthcare Limited and Avon Medical Practice, where she has worked tirelessly to expand access to quality healthcare, particularly for marginalized populations in Nigeria and beyond. He also acknowledged her impactful work as a Private Sector Champion for Immunisation in Africa with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, in 2018—a role through which she helped reach over 10 million unvaccinated children across the continent. President Tinubu lauded her dynamic lifestyle, noting her participation in local and international marathons as a source of inspiration for many to adopt healthier habits through exercise and nutrition. He further commended her role on the Board of Heirs Holdings and as a Trustee of The Tony Elumelu Foundation, where she continues to equip thousands of Nigerians with entrepreneurial tools and opportunities for sustainable growth. The President concluded with heartfelt prayers for continued strength, good health, and greater accomplishments in her ongoing service to humanity.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons will square off against Portugal’s senior women’s national team in an international friendly match later today in Lisbon, as part of their final preparations for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to kick off in Morocco from July 5 to 26.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The much-anticipated warm-up encounter is slated for 7:00 PM local time (same time as Nigeria) at the Estádio José Gomes, located in the Amadora district of Lisbon.
The nine-time African champions touched down in Portugal on Sunday night after traveling from Abuja via Casablanca. An initial group of ten players and backroom staff made the trip, with former Atletico Madrid forward Rinsola Babajide linking up with the team upon arrival. An additional thirteen players are expected to join the squad at the training base in Portugal.
Today’s fixture comes on the heels of Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Cameroon earlier this month in Abeokuta. Head coach Justin Madugu had overseen several training sessions last week at both the MKO Abiola National Stadium and Turf Arena before the team jetted out to Europe.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation has announced a 24-player squad for the upcoming WAFCON. The list features the return of star forward Asisat Oshoala and Saudi-based defender Ashleigh Plumptre. However, the exclusion of in-form striker Gift Monday has stirred reactions among fans and analysts.
Also making the cut are goalkeepers Chiamaka Nnadozie and Tochukwu Oluehi; veteran defender Osinachi Ohale; midfield anchors Halimatu Ayinde, Jennifer Echegini, Toni Payne; and team captain Rasheedat Ajibade. The attack will be bolstered by Francisca Ordega, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo.
Following today’s showdown, the Falcons will head to Morocco for another high-profile friendly against regional rivals Ghana on Friday, June 29. The Black Queens have already begun a 14-day pre-tournament training camp in Benslimane.
Nigeria will begin their WAFCON campaign in Group B, where they will face Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. All their group matches will be played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, as they aim to clinch a record-extending 10th continental title.
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